MO HCR26

Disapproves the Missouri State Tax Commission's December 15, 2009 proposed agricultural land valuations for the 2011 and 2012 assessment years under Section 137.021, RSMo.

Rejects proposed increases for Grades 1-4 cropland (Grade 1 rising from $985 to $1,270 per acre) and decreases for Grades 5-7 pastureland (Grade 5 dropping from $195 to $147 per acre).

Recommends the State Tax Commission review its agricultural land valuation procedures and consider using the University of Missouri's soil productivity index as a classification basis.

Cites concerns that Missouri farmers face high debt loads and cannot afford property tax increases, and that agricultural productivity is volatile due to weather, expenses, and commodity price fluctuations.

Instructs the House Chief Clerk to send copies to Governor Jay Nixon and the Missouri State Tax Commission.